School has officially begun at Samford University, and with a new record class also comes harsh heat and rising temperatures to greet both new and returning students onto campus.
Temperatures averaging 82 degrees over the past few weeks as well as a high of 100 degrees on Aug. 25 have caused some students to change their day-to-day schedules in order to avoid the heat.
Senior Daniel Bettis talked about some of the ways he handles the heat by drinking plenty of water and spending as much time in the shade as he can. As a player on the Samford Football team, he says the team practices early in the morning in order to avoid the sun and prevent any heat-related illnesses.
Faculty has also been impacted by the increased heat as various groups and programs around campus have had to make changes to combat the high temperatures.
Samford Marching Band Director Prof. Justin White talks about how he has had to handle the heat with getting the marching band ready for the football season.
”Most heat-related illnesses are derived from a lack of water,” White said. “When you lose water it causes the core body [temperature to] rise… and eating healthy supports hydration.”
A current issue for students is parking around campus. With the rising student population and a limited number of parking spots on campus, students have to walk much farther and longer in the sun in order to make it to their classes. This, compounded with high daily temperatures raises the risk of heat-related injuries.
With the heat continuing to increase each day for the next few weeks, students should make sure to drink lots of water and maintain a healthy diet.
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